David Bowie Performs a Theatrical Version of ‘The Man Who Sold the World’ on Saturday Night Live in 1979

Lori Dorn
January 17, 2016

December 1979 episode of Saturday Night Live featured a beautifully made-up David Bowie in an immobile oversized costume, performing a theatrical version of his song “The Man Who Sold the World” with amazing vocal accompaniment from the great Klaus Nomi and Joey Arias.

Bowie and band were introduced by guest host, actor Martin Sheen. The group returned for two other equally theatrical performances during the show – “Boys Keep Swinging” and “TVC15”.

Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.